Abstract
This paper aims to provide new knowledge in the field of mycelium both in the context of DIY and biofabrication. The approach of biofabrication is closely tied with the transition towards sustainability and ways of designing that incorporate different values and aesthetics. At the same time, closing the material loops is a prerequisite of the circular economy. These parameters point to a need of new knowledge for designers, in order to lower the entry barriers for the creation of DIY materials. Experts in a field, such as mycologists in this case study, come from an established field with a given methodology, jargon and issues. Collaborating with experts can pose many different barriers and opportunities. Sharing the narratives, experiences, and thoughts that emerged during a fruitful collaboration is necessary for the evolution and the broadening of the field of experiential knowledge and DIY biofabrication. Through this study and comparison, a female undergraduate student of a design engineering department presents practical lessons, for anyone who is interested in engaging in the field.
Keywords
DIY materials; Mycelium, Design for Sustainability; Material Driven Design
DOI
https://10.21606/eksig2019.109
Citation
Boukouvala, N., Bofylatos, S.,and Zacharopoulos, N.(2019) Mycelium: Exploring the New, Alternative Fungal Hyphae-Based Material’s Potentials, in Nithikul Nimkulrat, Kristi Kuusk, Julia Valle Noronha, Camilla Groth and Oscar Tomico (eds.), Knowing Together – experiential knowledge and collaboration, 23–24 September 2019, Tallinn, Estonia. https://doi.org/10.21606/eksig2019.109
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License
Mycelium: Exploring the New, Alternative Fungal Hyphae-Based Material’s Potentials
This paper aims to provide new knowledge in the field of mycelium both in the context of DIY and biofabrication. The approach of biofabrication is closely tied with the transition towards sustainability and ways of designing that incorporate different values and aesthetics. At the same time, closing the material loops is a prerequisite of the circular economy. These parameters point to a need of new knowledge for designers, in order to lower the entry barriers for the creation of DIY materials. Experts in a field, such as mycologists in this case study, come from an established field with a given methodology, jargon and issues. Collaborating with experts can pose many different barriers and opportunities. Sharing the narratives, experiences, and thoughts that emerged during a fruitful collaboration is necessary for the evolution and the broadening of the field of experiential knowledge and DIY biofabrication. Through this study and comparison, a female undergraduate student of a design engineering department presents practical lessons, for anyone who is interested in engaging in the field.